Merlin Zarn Obituary
Merlin Zarn, 87 of Amboy passed away Monday October 27, 2025 at Pathstone Living in Mankato. Funeral services will be at 11am Saturday November 1 at St. John's Lutheran Church - Willow Creek. Visitation will be from 9-11am at the church.
Merlin was born on February 18, 1938 in Pleasant Mound Township to Reinhardt and Gertrude (Urban) Zarn. He attended Willow Creek Parochial School through the eighth grade and graduated from Amboy High School in 1956. After graduating, he farmed with his dad. Merlin married Lorraine Becker on April 24, 1960, at Fieldon Lutheran Church. Together, they raised their three children on the family farm in rural Amboy. Merlin was baptized, confirmed, and a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church Willow Creek, active in the congregation and its school. His hobbies included playing church softball, mowing lawn, weaving rugs, trap shooting, playing cards and dancing. He enjoyed time with his grandchildren and their activities.
Merlin is survived by his wife Lorraine (Becker), his children, Brenda Zarn, Douglas Zarn and Rhonda (Mark) Pooler; grandchildren, Cody (Mallory) Zarn and Abby (Zach) Gappa; great-grandson Maverick Gappa.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
102 East Ciro Street, Truman, MN 56088
People and places connected with Merlin
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Merlin Zarn
Tell your own story about Merlin
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
How you can show support
Make a Donation
in Merlin Zarn's name
How to support Merlin's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Merlin Zarn's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
